Just got a sweet new computer and I'd like to do some music production. I've decided upon Senn HD600s for cans, KRK Rokit 6's/8's (or maybe even VXT 4's) for monitors, and Ableton. Now I just need help selecting an interface.

My main concern is losing sound quality/fidelity using an audio interface with a built-in DAC as opposed to a dedicated/boutique DAC (was looking at something in the $500 range like an AudioGD NFB-10, Nuforce Icon HDP, or maybe just a Schiit Bifrost).

I want the audiophile playback of a dedicated DAC in an interface. Any recommendations? Or are there any suggestions for an standalone interface/controller I could just add to a dedicated DAC for D/A?

Thanks for the reply. Looks like an interesting compromise between audio and multimedia (gaming, movies, etc.). I'm looking for something higher up in the hi-fi audio food chain. Nice to see new things coming from Creative, though.

I get decent results with a UGM96. It records at better than CD quality, (I stick with 24bit, 48kHz, but it goes up to 96kHz, completely superfluous IMHO.) has some decent DACs, comes with Cubase LE and costs about 100'000won in Korea. ESI makes some higher end USB interfaces as well.

There are a billion gearhead sites out there. Search some reviews for what you want in your price range.

I get decent results with a UGM96. It records at better than CD quality, (I stick with 24bit, 48kHz, but it goes up to 96kHz, completely superfluous IMHO.) has some decent DACs, comes with Cubase LE and costs about 100'000won in Korea. ESI makes some higher end USB interfaces as well.

There are a billion gearhead sites out there. Search some reviews for what you want in your price range.

I ended up going for an RME Babyface and have a friend bringing it over from the States (still about 720USD ).

Avid ProTools will give you everything and more digitally - sounds like you are buying hardware that just isn't necessary any more?

I use an M-box mini as my interface, then ProTools is on the screen, wham bam your in business

You need studio monitors to hear the exact sound of your work. Definitely necessary. Also I need an interface with a bunch of inputs to connect things like instruments and stuff like a launchpad or lemur. All digital isn't quite the way to go yet